On June 20, Giromondo marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new Dôme duty free store at Maiquetía International Airport (also known as Simón Bolívar International Airport) in Venezuela. Located in the international departures terminal, the new store represents a bold step toward a more ambitious, modern vision, say Giromondo owners Ricard Guasch and Alessandro Battellino.
The store is “deeply connected to our identity and rooted in the values that define us,” comments Guasch and Battellino.
“We’ve long been dedicated to delivering unique, memorable shopping experiences that meet international standards. But with this new store, we’re going further. We’re unveiling an innovative retail concept — a meeting point between the best of both worlds: Venezuelan products that celebrate our heritage, and premium imported goods that connect us with global trends,” say the Giromondo leaders.
They continue: “Our goal is for every traveler — whether Venezuelan or international — to leave our store with more than just a souvenir or a luxury item. We want them to take with them a story, a flavor, an aroma… a piece of Venezuela.”
Confidence in Venezuela’s future
Guasch and Battellino stress that the opening is more than a commercial expansion – it is a symbol of their confidence in the country’s future, a commitment to growth, and a bridge between the local and the global.
“With this space, we proudly support national brands, local entrepreneurs, and authentic products that showcase the unique cultural identity. We believe in the power of what’s made here — and we’re determined to be a platform that amplifies Venezuelan talent on the world stage,” they say.
In addition to featuring national brands, Guasch and Battellino say that they remain committed to offering a curated selection of globally renowned imported products, upholding the highest standards of quality, variety, and customer service.
International traffic grows
Despite the well-publicized political difficulties faced by Venezuela over the past years, Maiquetía is experiencing a strong rebound in international traffic, marked by a diversified and growing network of airline connections. In recent months, the airport has seen a notable increase in both passenger volume and destination offerings, reflecting renewed confidence in Venezuela’s aviation sector and its vital role as a regional gateway, according to published reports.
Also boding well for the new store, several key routes have been reinstated, which are leading the resurgence in international connectivity.
Copa Airlines has resumed service to Panama City, now operating three times per week. Direct flights to the Dominican Republic have also been reinstated, and GOL Linhas Aéreas has launched a new route connecting Maiquetía with São Paulo, significantly strengthening ties with Brazil and facilitating greater South American integration.
In a major development for long-haul international travel, Qatar Airways will begin a direct flight from Doha in August, placing Venezuela on the map for Middle East travel and trade and opening doors for global connectivity through Qatar’s vast network.
The airport is witnessing a steady and strategic recovery in international air travel and says that it continues to enhance the passenger experience with upgraded facilities, strengthened safety protocols, and improved airline partnerships.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire team that made this project possible — our partners, suppliers, designers, operational staff, and the airport authorities for their ongoing support throughout this journey,” conclude Guasch and Battellino regarding the opening of the Dôme store.
